Romans 12:18
(NIV)
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you,
live at peace with everyone.
Colossians
3:15 (NIV)
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since
as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
When
I think about what it means to live in a peaceful way, the typical descriptive
words come to mind: quietly behaved and calm. Sometimes we tend to view peace
as just the opposite of war, and in some respects it is. We like to congratulate
ourselves, and claim that since we are not literally, physically involved in
war, we are “peaceful”. However it can be illuminating to think about what
peace is not in order to gain a
better perspective on what peace is.
Being at peace is not being contentious
(i.e., likely to cause disagreements or arguments, or a wearisome tendency to
quarrel and dispute). No, the Romans passage doesn’t mean we will never
disagree with what is wrong in our nation. But it does mean as far as it
depends on us, we will not cause strife with others. We will not be the cause
of arguments and quarrels.
There
is something else to which I would like to draw your attention. The Colossians
passage states that we are “called to peace.” When you are called to do
something, yes, you might consider it an invitation or request. But the actual
root of the word “called” indicates a command. Let that sink in for just a
moment. As members of one body, the body of Christ, we are called by command to
let peace rule our hearts; it is not a mere suggestion or request. It is a
responsibility.
Gracious Heavenly Father,
Sometimes
we like to consider ourselves to be peaceful creatures. Yet with all the
disharmony in our world, and blatant wrongdoing, it is all too easy for us to
get caught up in the heat of the moment in a way that displeases you—in a way
that does not bring honor and glory to your name. Teach us the right way to
respond. Teach us how to let the peace of Christ rule our hearts.
In
Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
Respectfully written and submitted by
Dotty Willmon, Resurrection Christian—looking for
the blessed hope of Christ’s return!
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